An 80 species day

Dungeness RSPB - 0900hrs - humid, sunny, light airs - Spent the day guiding for John, Neville and John from Sussex, Berks and Hants. We concentrated on flowering plants and birds, with a dash of history thrown in, and as it was the groups` first visit to Dungeness they were amazed at the wide variety of both disciplines on offer. Botanically the site is probably at its peak about now, while we also noted several species of dragonflies, Painted Ladies and Marsh Frogs.
  Around the circular route, due to the lack of wind, we had cracking views of many passerines including Sedge and Reed Warblers, Common Whitethroats, Linnets, Bearded Tits, Reed Buntings and Tree Sparrow, plus Marsh Harriers, Hobby and Raven. On Dengemarsh it was good to see the Common Terns had reclaimed one of the tern rafts. On Burrowes the dreaded Iceland Gull hybrid was in front of Makepeace hide, while a drake Pintail was the surprise duck amongst a host of eclipse birds including Teal and Wigeon.

                                Common Terns, Dengemarsh

                                 Sedge Warbler, Return Trail
                           
Scotney - In muggy conditions the farm turned up trumps for the guests with stunning views of Little Owl, Yellow Wagtails, Corn Buntings and a Mediterranean Gull. Also noted Avocets and Black-headed Gulls with chicks, Skylarks, Reed Warblers, Marsh Harrier and Little Egret.

                                Little Owl, Scotney

                                2nd summer Mediterranean Gull, Scotney

Dungeness - We finished off at the point plant hunting and a brief seawatch from the concrete road where a trickle of Sandwich Terns, Gannets and a Kittiwake were  noted. It was also good to see a Meadow Pipit with fledged young.
  A fine day in the field, in great company, during which time we rattled up 80 species of birds with plenty of quality for the guests to saviour.